december 13, 2013 since 1957 vol. 57 issue 49 postal

December 13, 2013 Since 1957 Vol. 57 Issue 49

POSTAL MARINES GEAR UP FOR HOLIDAY RUSH VINTAGE PARTYVINTAGE PARTY

STEELKNIGHT

WINTERFestival

For service members not going home duringthe holidays, the Christmas spirit can often below and this cheerful time of year can feel like‘just another month.’

In today’s technological world, a phone callhome or an e-mail to a loved one can sometimesfill the void of being away during the holidays,but not quite as much as seeing your name on apackage or a letter.

Working around the clock to fill that void, are sixMarines at the Combat Center Post Office whowork diligently to sort all Christmas and New Year’s

mail so that they arrive on time and intact.“The six of us work very hard to ensure that the

Marines get their mail and packages as quick as pos-sible,” said Staff Sgt. Jonathan Davis, postal clerk,Headquarters Battalion. “We get a lot of Marineswho come down here every day asking about theirpackages, so we understand that it is important tothem. It is a great feeling to see the look on aMarine’s face when you can deliver them their pack-age, especially during the holiday season.”

During Christmas and New Year’s, the mail com-ing through the Combat Center post office increas-es substantially, according to Davis.

To compensate for the increase, the postalMarines do what Marines do best, deal with it.

“Even with the increase in work, we do whatwe have to do to get the mail out,” Davis said. “Weare Marines and that is what Marines do, adaptand overcome.”

With the biggest push of mail coming in forthe students at the Marine Corps

See PPOOSSTTAALL page A6

LLaannccee CCppll.. KKaasseeyy PPeeaaccoocckk Combat Correspondent

pproximately 41 Marines with 1st Tank Battalion and theMarine Corps Communication-Electronics School met withVintage Country Club members during the Vintage CountryClub’s Annual Holiday Party in Indian Wells, Calif., Saturday.

The annual event allows club members to providethe Marines with a fun evening, outstanding food and professionalentertainment while enjoying each other’s company.

While the meal was free for the Marines, the Vintage Club andAmerican Friends of our Armed Forces also provided a charteredbus to transport the Marines to and from the event.

After introductions were made, Cpl. Jesus Bermudez, ammunitiontechnician, 1st Tank Battalion, kicked off the night by leading everyonein the pledge of allegiance, setting the patriotic tone of the evening.

“I was extremely proud to be able to start the night off with

Tracey Holcomb, substance abuse control clerk, Marine Corps Communication-ElectronicsSchool, was awarded the Blacks in Government Meritorious Service Award for outstanding serv-ice in and around the community.

Holcomb, along with her service to MCCES in the alcohol and drug prevention program,founded a non-profit organization focusing on assisting women in the local community.

Holcomb was presented the award by Col. Andrew Murray, commanding officer, MCCES, onbehalf of Clarence Johnson, director, Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity, Office of theUnder Secretary of Defense for Personnel Readiness.

Marines, sailors and their familiesgathered at Del Valle Field for a chanceto talk to Santa Claus and get somegoodies during the annual WinterFestival, sponsored by Marine CorpsCommunity Services and the UnitedService Organizations, Saturday.

The event featured games such asstrongman and paintball, pony rides,face-painting and a toy give-away.

A

ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY HOSTS MARINES,CLUB MEMBERS FOR MEMORABLE NIGHT

COMBAT CENTER BRINGS

HOLIDAYS INDOORS

TACTICAL CONVOY TRAINING PREPARES MARINES

CCPPLL.. DD..JJ.. WWUU

Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 5, Combat Logistics Regiment 1, 1stMarine Logistics Group, provide security for a tactical convoy as part of trainingleading up to Exercise Steel Knight 2014, Friday.

Pvt. Brian Ritzenthalen, student, Marine CorpsCommunications-Electronics School, volunteered tobe the snowman for the Winter Festival Saturday.

LLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. CCHHAARRLLEESS JJ.. SSAANNTTAAMMAARRIIAA

LLaannccee CCppll.. PPaauull SS.. MMaarrttiinneezzCombat Correspondent

See VVIINNTTAAGGEE page A6

See FFEESSTTIIVVAALL page A6

“All vehicles halt,” said the convoycommander over the radio. “Be advised,Vic 3 has taken indirect fire. Confirmedchemical weapons have been used.”Immediately, Pfc. Justin Orovsky dis-mounted from the Humvee and sig-naled for the other Marines to don theirgas masks. Two Marines dismountedfrom the lead vehicle to provide securitywhile the turret gunner kept his machinegun on a swivel.

The Marines established a perimeteraround the convoy and performed thenecessary procedures to repair the dam-aged vehicle. Operating in rough terrain,harsh weather conditions and dealingwith possible equipment malfunctionswere just a few of the challenges that theMarines of Combat Logistics Battalion5, Combat Logistics Regiment 1, facedduring this training event aboard MarineCorps Air Ground Combat CenterTwentynine Palms, Friday.

This was conducted as part of train-ing leading up to Exercise Steel Knight2014, an annual large-scale exercisedesigned to prepare 1st Marine Division

for deployment as the Ground CombatElement of a Marine Air-Ground TaskForce supported by 1st MLG and 3rdMarine Air Wing. Combined, theMAGTF is able to deploy and respondin a timely manner to any situationacross the globe.

As logistics units in support of theMAGTF, 1st MLG’s convoys arerequired to provide supplies to thefront lines, overcoming any obstaclesand threats along the way. This tacticalconvoy training is an essential part oftheir skillset.

“Convoys can come across certainrisks such as indirect fire and chemicalwarfare,” said Sgt. Brandon Edgerton,convoy commander, Headquarters andSupport Company, CLB-5, CLR-1.“There are also internal risks such asvehicles breaking down, so we reallyneed to keep our Marines in a combatmindset at all times.”

The training provided the Marineswith some experience on how to operatein an expeditionary environment.

“Four vehicles and 16 Marinesfrom H & S Company participated in

LLaannccee CCppll.. SShhaallttiieell DDoommiinngguueezzCombat Correspondent

[Above] Marines converse with Vintage Country Club members during the club’s annual holiday party in Indian Wells,Calif., Saturday. [Bottom, right] Pfc. Brandon Keonakhone, student, Marine Corps Communication-ElectronicsSchool, shakes hands with a member of the All-American Boys Chorus during the holiday party Saturday.

The Combat Center’s postal Marines works diligently to sort Christmas and New Years’mail so they can arrive on time and intact.

LLaannccee CCppll.. KKaasseeyy PPeeaaccoocckkCombat Correspondent

LLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. KKAASSEEYY PPEEAACCOOCCKK


LLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. SSHHAALLTTIIEELL DDOOMMIINNGGUUEEZZ

See MMLLGG page A6

&

OFF-LIMITSESTABLISHMENTS

MCIWest off-limits establishments guid-ance prohibits service members frompatronizing the following locations. Thisorder applies to all military personnel.

In Oceanside:- Angelo’s Kars, 222 S. Coast Hwy,

Oceanside, Calif., 92054- Angelo’s Kars, 226 S. Coast Hwy,

Oceanside, Calif., 92054

In San Diego:- Club Mustang, 2200 University Ave.- Club San Diego, 3955 Fourth St.- Get It On Shoppe, 3219 Mission Blvd.- Main Street Motel, 3494 Main St.- Vulcan Baths, 805 W. Cedar St.

In National City:- Dream Crystal, 15366 Highland Ave.- Sports Auto Sales, 1112 National City Blvd.

Local off-limits guidance prohibits servicemembers from patronizing the followinglocations.

In Twentynine Palms:- Adobe Smoke Shop, 6441 Adobe Rd.- STC Smoke Shop, 6001 Adobe Rd.- K Smoke Shop, 5865A Adobe Rd.

In Yucca Valley:- Yucca Tobacco Mart, 57602 29 Palms Hwy.- Puff ’s Tobacco Mart, 57063 29 Palms Hwy.

In Palm Springs:- Village Pub, 266 S. Palm Canyon Dr.- Whispering Palms Apts., 449 E. Arenas Road- NYPD Pizza, 260-262 N. Palm Canyon Drive

For the complete orders, but not off-limits,check out the Combat Center’s official websiteat http://www.29palms.marines.mil

A2 DEECCEEMMBBEERR 13, 2013 OBBSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN Post

Observation Post

The Observation Post is published by Hi-Desert Publishing, a private firm in no way connect-ed with the Department of Defense or the United States Marine Corps, under exclusive writ-ten contract with the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center. This commercial enterprisenewspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services. Contents of theObservation Post are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the United Statesgovernment, the DOD, or the United States Marine Corps. The appearance of advertising inthis publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by theDOD or Hi-Desert Publishing of the services advertised.Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use orpatronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status,physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, useror patron. Editorial content is prepared by the Public Affairs Office, MCAGCC,Twentynine Palms, Calif. 92278. All photos, unless otherwise indicated are Official USMCPhotos. Questions can be directed to the Public Affairs Office, located in building 1417,during normal working hours at 830-6213 or FAX 830-5474. The Observation Post is madewith 60 percent recycled paper.

CCoommmmaannddiinngg GGeenneerraall -- Maj. Gen. David H. Berger BBaassee SSggtt.. MMaajj.. -- Sgt. Maj. Karl VillalinoPPuubblliicc AAffffaaiirrss OOffffiicceerr - Capt. Justin SmithPPuubblliicc AAffffaaiirrss CChhiieeff -- Staff Sgt. Dorian GardnerMMeeddiiaa NNCCOO -- Cpl. Lauren A. KurkimilisLLaayyoouutt//DDeessiiggnn -- Cpl. Ali Azimi

PPrreessss CChhiieeff -- Lance Cpl. Paul S. MartinezCCoorrrreessppoonnddeennttssCpl. D. J. WuLance Cpl. Alejandro BedoyaLance Cpl. Charles J. SantamariaLance Cpl. Kasey Peacock

Whatever you’re lookingfor, you can find it in the

Observation PostClassified section

SUDOKU 3116DACROSS 1. Politically correct

pronoun 6. Letters before U 9. Pile 13. Survey choice,

sometimes 14. Former stadium for

the Mets 15. World’s Fair word 16. Bread choice 18. Facades 19. School period 20. Blood-pumping

organ 21. One of the Seven

Deadly Sins 22. Cry to the toreador 23. Ripken of baseball 24. Quaker food 26. Some family tree

members 31. Be a bad houseguest 34. Marge and Homers

middle child 35. House vote 36. Enjoys, as benefits 37. Wine container 38. One brick shy of a

load 40. Landers of advice 41. “Woe is me!”43. Lose it 44. Breed that runs

quickly over short distances

47. Stray dog, often

48. Ladies of the house 49. Gorilla's cousin 52. Three-card monte,

notably 54. ___-Kettering

Institute 57. Trebek of

“Jeopardy!”58. Foil-wrapped

chocolate treat 59. Quaver, in music 61. Actor Sharif62. Razor brand 63. Old anesthetic 64. New England team,

for short 65. Golf peg 66. It makes bread rise DOWN1. Do-it-yourselfer’s

bookstore section 2. Singer Merman 3. Coast 4. Captain’s spot 5. Before 6. Perlman of “Cheers”7. Cook very quickly, as

a tuna steak 8. Parlor acquisitions 9. Wellness 10. Comment to a burper 11. Many N.Y.C. homes 12. Washington

newspaper 14. Pantry division 17. Animal with blubber 23. “The Cup of Tea”

painter Mary 25. Speechless 26. ‘50s dance 27. Get red in the face 28. Fix, as an outcome 29. Monthly expense 30. Gives an opinion 31. Iran neighbor 32. Bill of fare

33. Tropics headgear 37. Jolt 39. Unified 42. “Dig in!”43. Pres. Ulysses S. ___ 45. Whispered words 46. Nebraska's largest city 49. Honolulu howdy 50. “For ___ sake!”

51. Exercise, as influence 52. Hit the mall 53. Deep sleep 55. Dietetic, in ad-speak 56. Beast 57. Prefix with chamber or bellum 60. “Yo!”

SPLIT DECISION See answers on page B4

Visit the official

MCAGCC facebook page athttp://www.flickr.com/thecombatcenterhttp://www.youtube.com/user/CombatCenterPAOhttp://www.facebook.com/thecombatcenter

The Combat Center has its own

YouTube channel. Find it at

The Combat Center has its ownFlickr photo and video streams.

Find them at

MASON LEE GRAYBorn on: Nov. 26, 2013

Born to: Jacob and Alanna Gray

JHAMIEL GREENBorn on: Nov. 26, 2013

Born to: Omak and Maria Green

ISABELLE MARIE FISHERBorn on: Nov. 29, 2013

Born to: Westin and Sadie Fisher

DANIEL ALEJANDRO CAMACHOBorn on: Nov. 30, 2013

Born to: Daniel and Rosa Camacho

LINDY SUE RYDMANBorn on: Nov. 23, 2013

Born to: Kara and Micah Rydman

BRIAN LAWRENCE MALAKIEBorn on: Nov. 28, 2013

Born to: Conor and Aisling Malakie

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS

The rapid approach of winter means drivers should take additional precau-tions when driving. Snow, sleet and ice can lead to slower traffic, hazardous roadconditions, and unforeseen dangers. By preparing yourself and your vehicle forwinter driving you can help keep yourself, your family and other travelers on theroad safe.

At any temperature, 20 degrees below zero or 90 degrees above zero, weath-er affects road and driving conditions which can pose serious problems. Yourlocal radio, television, newspaper and internet forecasts will give you the most upto date information on weather and road conditions.

Keep your vehicle properly serviced by checking the owner’s manual forthe recommended intervals. This ensures better gas mileage, quicker starts,faster response on pick-up and passing power and prevents major problems.

Check the concentration level of the antifreeze in your vehicle’sengine. Insert an antifreeze tester into the water reservoir of your car. Do notopen the radiator cap!

Add a stronger windshield cleaning/de-icer fluid solution to keepthe spray from freezing.

Check the air pressure in your tires (including the spare) andreplace any worn tires. (Having proper wheel alignment will lead to a longerlife for your tires).

Vehicle Checklist for Winter WeatherBefore winter arrives, check these in your vehicle:

Winter: Your Vehicle You]

][

[GGuuyy RRoossbboouugghh

MAGTFTC, MCAGCC Safety Division

Photo and story by

LLaannccee CCppll.. AAlleejjaannddrroo BBeeddooyyaa

Heater and windshield defroster

Tires

Battery

Exhaust

Brakes

Fuel

Brake Fluid

Oil

Ignition system

Radiator

Lights and emergency flashers

Power Steering Fluid

Combat Center personnel participated in ablood drive hosted by Desert Blood Servicesat the Robert E. Bush Naval Hospital parkinglot Wednesday. The blood drive was open toanyone willing to donate.

Desert Blood Services visits the CombatCenter approximately once a month. DBS’smobile donation station enables them to parkin various locations throughout the installa-tion, allowing more personnel to donate.

“We love coming to visit the service mem-bers and families aboard this base,” saidCaroline Paxton, registered nurse, DBS. “It isamazing to see how willing our service mem-bers are to donate. Not only are they fightingfor their country but they are helping save livesby donating to our organization.”

The donated blood is given to people inneed and may also be separated into plasma,red blood cells, and platelets, to facilitate moreuse from one donor.

According to Paxton, sometimes peoplewill not need the blood but will need a partof the blood. By donating one pint of

blood, the donor may be helping to save upto three people.

Although the blood saves lives, there is anecessary criterion which needs to be met inorder to donate. Some of the most well-known things to make a person ineligible aretattoos, sexually transmitted diseases, and trav-el or birth in other countries.

Once a person is eligible to donate,their blood pressure, temperature andpulse is taken and they give a small bloodsample to ensure they’re not anemic. Theythen lie down and their arm will becleansed with an antiseptic wipe. A sterileneedle is then used to collect the pint ofblood to be donated. The donor is offeredsnacks and drinks after they are done.They are also given a t-shirt thanking themfor their donation.

“It feels good to donate,” said Staff Sgt.Salvador Cavan, unmanned aerial system tech-nician, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 3.“It is a fairly quick process and it may save alife. Why wouldn’t someone want to donate?”

BBLLOOOODD DDRRIIVVEE

Combat Center personnel participate in the blood drive hosted by DesertBlood Services at the Robert E. Bush Naval Hospital parking lot Dec. 11.

COMBAT CENTER PATRONS DONATE

OBBSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN Post DEECCEEMMBBEERR 13, 2013 A3

> I grew up in what I like to think in between corn-fields. Very small town, USA. I worked on cars with mydad and grandpa.> It’s funny. The show, the Biggest Loser, I watch withmy wife. The host of the show does triathlons. She’s amother of two, but not the typical build athlete. She wasone of my inspirations; if she can do it, I can do it.> I think I have more triathlete pages liked onFacebook than military ones.> Another inspiration for me was a man namedShane Helman. I met him while on recruiting duty. He’s alittle bit older than me, served in the Marine Corps dur-ing Desert Storm, and loved it. We share some of thesame passions, and he started running marathons at theage of 42.> So I said, if Shane can do it at 42, and here I was at31, I can do it. I picked triathlons because I was always fond of cycling, and could do the run-ning. The swim was my biggest obstacle because I was comfortable in the water but not astrong swimmer.> I started swimming routinely during lunch as many days as I could. I met Don Tolbert,very nice and helpful guy. He taught me effective swimming, and I learned how to swim. Withhis help and guidance on getting the technique right, I became a very effective swimmer.> That was it. My wife just said go do it. She registered me for the Lake Havasu Bucket ListTriathlon. My first one. I completely boogered it, but it was neat to do.> I met interesting people, from pros, to amateurs, to guys in better shape than me andsome in worse shape than me.> I got hooked. Since then, I’ve done the Mission Bay in October, and the Tour De BigBear; a 50-mile road bike around Big Bear, Calif.> I did better on the Mission Bay triathlon. Out of 1600 competitors, I placed 760th, whichI think is better than my first one where I placed second to last.> Mission Bay was my favorite so far. It was my first swim in a bay. I learned veryquickly to keep my mouth closed due to the salt water. I was very nervous. With feet and handsflailing everywhere. It was nerve-wrecking, but as soon as the gun went off, all of my nerves turned into energy.> I went for 500 meters. I swam over top people, around people, beside people, anything to find my way through the crowd. I felt good getting out of thewater about 11 minutes later.> We rolled right into our first transition, getting on the bike. I can remember running and stumbling over myself getting the wetsuit off because time waseverything. Then my wife said relax, and I slowed down to just get it off and jump on the bike.> I was really strong on the bike. I passed a few people and only got passed by a couple. I was thinking that it’s okay because I had beat them out of the water.> After 15 miles on the bike, we did the last transition. I could hear my wife and kids yelling go daddy go. It was time for three miles.> Me and running don’t get along, but we have this respect that I know I have to do it so I do it.> I saw a funny sign that made me laugh because it said, “Keep running, there’s a zombie behind you.” I had a lot of fun that day.> This triathlon was huge, not like my first one. When I finally finished, Iheard the announcement say ‘Congratulations Michael Baker, you are now atriathlete.’> I thought it was the coolest thing in the world, getting that recogni-tion and applause.> I love it, and I don’t know why I put myself through it because I can’t movethe next day. I guess I do it for me, because I want to do it, and I’m getting bet-ter at it.> When you cross the finish line, everything goes away for a few sec-onds. I didn’t finish first, I’m not second, but I’m finishing. That’s all I wantto do.> I continue to work on it. I’m my biggest critic and I always want to getbetter.> Don’t give up. I wanted to run a triathlon, and I did it. I didn’t quit on it.On my first race, the only guy I beat was 58 years old. Even during that race, Ithought about how much I wanted to just sit down, but I kept going.> One of my big goals is to do an Iron Man before I’m 40. It’s the sameswim-bike-run event, but a 2.4 mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and 26.2 milerun. I want to hear the words, Michael Baker, you are an Iron Man. I’ve goteight years to train for it.

Grove City, Penn.Michael

MICHAEL BAKER WAS INSPIRED

BY SEVERAL SOURCES TO

UNDERTAKE THE CHALLENGE OF

A TRIATHLON. SINCE COMPLET-ING HIS FIRST, HE HAS WORKED

VIGOROUSLY TO ONE DAY

BECOME AN IRONMAN.

BAKER

Interviewed and photographed by Lance Cpl. Paul S. Martinez Dec. 3, 2013

utilities maintenance chief, 32

WHAT I’VE LEARNED

Visit the official

MCAGCC facebookpage at

facebook.com /thecombatcenter


VISITSCOMBAT CENTER KIDS

[Above] Tyler Paul, 8, son of NavyLt. Joshua Paul, psychiatrist, 7thMarine Regiment, sits with SantaClaus at the Marine CorpsExchange Dec. 6.[Top, right] Rian Coons, son of 1stLt. Andrew Coons, Company A,3rd Combat Engineer Battalion,tells Santa what he wants forChristmas at the Marine CorpsExchange Dec. 6.[Bottom, left] Esperanza Yanez,daughter of Petty Officer 3rd ClassDominic Yanez, aviation ordnanceairman, USS Carl VInson, enjoys avisit from Santa Claus at the MarineCorps Exchange Dec. 6.[Bottom, right] Austin Kerrigan,8 months, son of Capt. WillKerrigan, company commander,E Company, 2nd Battalion, 7thMarine Regiment, meets SantaClaus for the first time at theMarine Corps Exchange Dec. 6.

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LLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. CCHHAARRLLEESS JJ.. SSAANNTTAAMMAARRIIAA

LLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. PPAAUULL SS.. MMAARRTTIINNEEZZ

LLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. PPAAUULL SS.. MMAARRTTIINNEEZZLLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. PPAAUULL SS.. MMAARRTTIINNEEZZ


The energy was high as Combat Center soccerplayers representing Headquarters Battalion andTeam Mollie Whoppers arrived at the East Gym’sindoor soccer playing field for the last game of the

season. One more bout between two teams of sea-soned, no-nonsense players would result in one beingnamed champion.

It was an adrenaline-fueled match as players hastilymaneuvered the playing field.Tensions were high, and fast,forceful kicks to the soccer ball were even higher. After twohalves of pure sport, it was Headquarters Battalion whoemerged victorious with a score of 9 to 5.

With the soccer season officially over, Combat Centersoccer players will take a well-deserved break until the out-door season kicks off next year.

Looking for the

right job for you?

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I][ S][INDOOR SOCCER

Headquarters versus Whoppers

[Above] Soccer players with Headquarters Battalion and TeamMollie Whoppers face off during the indoor-soccer championshipmatch at the East Gym Dec. 5.[Left] Hugo Antunez, defender, Headquarters Battalion, observesthe playing field during the indoor-soccer championship match atthe East Gym Dec. 5.

[Above] Thomas Salukombo, soc-cer player, Headquarters Battalion,and Kyle Blankenship, soccer player,Team Mollie Whoppers, compete forthe ball during the indoor-soccerchampionship match at the EastGym Dec. 5. [Right] ThomasSalukombo, soccer player,Headquarters Battalion, and RicardoJones, soccer player, Team MollieWhoppers, compete for the ball dur-ing the indoor-soccer championshipmatch at the East Gym Dec. 5.

PPHHOOTTOOSS BBYY LLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. PPAAUULL SS.. MMAARRTTIINNEEZZ

See page B2 forSunset Cinemamovieschedule

Whatever you’re looking for, you can find it in theObservation PostClassified section

LLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. PPAAUULL SS.. MMAARRTTIINNEEZZ



Communication-Electronics School, it is an especially good feeling tobring a sense of holiday cheer to Marines so early in their careers,according to Sgt. Maria Ortiz, postal clerk, Headquarters Battalion.

“It makes me personally feel like I can bring a part of the holidays tothem,” Ortiz said. “Having been deployed to Okinawa and to a combatzone, I understand how important mail can be. For these students, thatpiece of home coming in a package can be just as important.”

The biggest build-up of mail the postal Marines handle is comingback from the New Year’s break. While the Marines still manage to sortit all out and have it ready for pick up, it still makes for an extremely longmorning, according to Lance Cpl. Basem Bakhtan, postal clerk,Headquarters Battalion.

“Coming back from New Year’s makes for a really busy morning, but wealways get it done on time,” Bakhtan said. “It feels good providing to theseMarines because for some of them, this is all they are looking forward toover the holiday breaks.”

While the average work day and load for postal Marines can be muchdifferent than that of other Marines, their role in the boosting of morale inour Corps solidifies their dedication to service, and earns them a key role inthe continuance and preservation of our legacy.

the pledge of allegiance,”Bermudez said. “It is great to seeother people showing howproud they are of what we doevery day. It is definitely a night Iwon’t soon forget.”

The evening continued with din-ner and conversation, as the Marineswere broken up into groups of twoand seated with club members.

“This was an especially excit-ing event for me because Ihaven’t experienced manythings like this in my short timein the Marine Corps,” said Pvt.Steven Donegan, student,Marine Corps Communication-

Electronics School. “The foodwas excellent and the entertain-ment was fantastic.”

The entertainment came to aclose with a performance by theAll-American Boys Chorus, aninternationally-acclaimed cho-risters group who performworld-class concerts throughoutSouthern California, the USAand the world.

“I was amazed by the singer,”Donegan added. “I wish I couldsing like them.”

Throughout the years, theVintage Club members haveprovided significant support tofamily programs with theCombat Center through its asso-

ciation with the AmericanFriends of our Armed Forces.

Since its start, AFAF has provid-ed more than 1.5 million dollars insponsorship support for programsthat assist Marines and their families.

While many of the club mem-bers were prior service members,everyone shared the commongoal of giving thanks and appre-ciation to those currently serving.

“The members really enjoygiving their appreciation to theMarines at events like this,” saidAlan Boeckmann, club memberand event host. “The fact thatthey provide their service andsacrifice every day for us, this isthe least we can do.”

However, increasingly fast and sandy windsquickly put the event at risk. Within anhour, it was ultimately closed down, leavingits attendees saddened as they watchedtents and booths being closed down.

“It was sad to see it shut down. We comeevery year,” said Patricia O’Toole, disciplineteacher, Onaga Elementary. “At least thekids still got their toys.” O’Toole under-stood the danger that the strong winds wereimposing, and understood the decision tocall it off.

Although the weather was bad enough tostop the Winter Festival, it couldn’t breakthe Combat Center’s holiday spirit.Attendees of the festival reconvened at theMarine Corps Exchange, where Santa Clausand carolers from the Select Choir atTwentynine Palms High School were keep-ing the holiday alive.

“MCCS kept it going by having it here,”O’Toole said. “At least for the kids, theykept it alive.”

In one area of the Exchange, Santa Claushimself was open to have children sit on hislap and request a Christmas gift.

“I'm happy I got to see Santa,” saidLogan Thoummavong, 5, son of Pfc.Manothong Thoummavong, student,Marine Corps Communications-ElectronicsSchool. “I asked him for a Nerf gun forChristmas.”

Near the entrance, the student choirgracefully sang such carols as We Wish Youa Merry Christmas, Here Comes SantaClaus, and Jingle Bell Rock as CombatCenter patrons looked on.

“This choir is really nice,” said Sgt.Melody Coppock, unit defense maintenancetechnician, MCCES. “It’s unfortunate theyhad to cancel, but anything counts to put asmile on a little kid’s face.”

The choir was delighted to make an appear-ance for service members and their families.

“A lot of our kids are military kids, andthe base has been extremely supportive,”said Michael Mayes, music director,Twentynine Palms High School. “We loveto be able to have the opportunity to dowhat we can.”

With spirits lifted for the day, children,with candy canes and photos of Santa Clausin hand, excitedly departed the Exchange toawait the return of Santa on Christmas Eve.

FESTIVAL, from A1

VINTAGE, from A1

POSTAL, from A1

[Left] Cpl. Jesus Bermudez, ammunition technician, 1stTank Battalion, leads the crowd in the pledge of allegianceduring the Vintage Country Club Annual Holiday Party inIndian Wells, Calif., Dec. 7. [Above] Marines speak withcountry club members during the annual holiday party heldat the club Dec. 7.

Gunnar Simmons, 5, son of 1st Lt. Geoffrey Simmons, TTS training officer incharge, Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School, rides a pony during theMarine Corps Community Services’ Winter Festival at Del Valle Field Dec. 7.

The Combat Center has itsown Flickr photo and

video streams. Find them athttp://www.flickr.com/

thecombatcenter.

The Combat Center has its ownYouTube channel

Find it at http://www.youtube.com/user/CombatCenterPAO.

the exercise,” said Edgerton, a native of San Antonio, Texas. “Wehave to make sure that our convoys stay on point, maintaining disper-sion and good communication with each other.”

The convoy covered approximately 6 - 10 kilometers during theexercise and faced different types of terrain, including soft sandand large hills. Each driver was required to coordinate with the con-voy commander about the speed and the location of their vehicle.

“The lead vehicle needs to be vigilant, being the first one to take any hitsand the one who probes from the front,” said Lance Cpl. Mitchell Burri,lead vehicle driver and vehicle commander, H & S Co., CLB-5, CLR-1, 1stMLG. “You have to be constantly aware of your surroundings, [maintain-ing] a combat mindset at all times.”

The training provided the Marines of CLB-5 with experience onwhat to expect when they are deployed to expeditionary environ-ments and how to support forwarddeployed units, such as 1st MarineDivision, during operations and exercises like Steel Knight.

MLG, from A1


[Top, left] A Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor demonstrates an air choke to recruits with Company K, 3rdBattalion, Recruit Training Regiment during the MCMAP training session Nov. 18. Recruits learned two chokes,the blood and air choke.[Above] Recruits with Co. K execute a knife technique under the watchful eyes of drill instructors during train-ing Nov. 18. Training in MCMAP is an essential part of creating combat-ready Marines.[Left] Recruits learn various MCMAP techniques during training aboard the Marine Corps Recuit Depot SanDiego, Nov. 18. Once they have mastered the different chokes, they are taught techniques to counter the moves.

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For some countries, Christmas is only a one-day celebration, but this is not the case in thePhilippines. Of all the festivals celebrated throughout the country, Christmas is the longest cel-

ebration amongst Catholic Filipinos.In my home, we start by putting up the Christmas tree and decorations as early as

September. This is how early the spirit of Christmas can be felt in the Philippines.However, the yuletide season in the country really begins on the 16th and lasts until the24th day of December when misa de gallo or midnight mass occurs; this is a nine-daydevotion, which is usually done as early as 3 a.m., each day. Filipinos are encouragedto participate in this series of midnight masses because it is believed that if a personcompletes the nine mornings of epiphany, one wish shall be granted to them.

Filipinos are also fond of caroling during the Christmas season. Most of the carol-ers are children who tend to ask for their aguinaldo or Christmas present, which comein the form of cash and coins. Most of the time, the local government, churches andeven private institutions conduct Christmas fund-raising contests like Christmaslantern making, caroling and Christmas light exhibitions to be donated to orphanages,schools or hospitals. As a family tradition, my family celebrates the highlight of the sea-

son by staying up late on the eve of 24th for the night-long dinner party referred to asNoche Buena.

Now that I am living far away from home, I find myself trying to recreate these tradi-tions for my family to enjoy. After all, Christmas is about spending time with your loved

ones. No matter where I am, I try my best to keep that in mind and in my heart.

Growing up, I thought the way I celebrated holidays was the way everyone celebrated the holidays.Eventually, I learned each culture has their own way of doing things. I didn’t have Santa or presents under

my Christmas tree. Instead, my Christmas was based off of my religion and my culture. My Christmas wasn’tthe average American Christmas. It was unique.

In my culture, Christmas always began on the 7th of December. This day is known as “El dia de lasvelitas” or the day of the candles. At dusk, my family and I lit candles and lined them up on pieces ofwood. We then decorated the front of our house and our church with these candles and let them burnthroughout the night. The day was not complete until my family gathered to dance and eat. This eventsymbolized the beginning of the Christmas season.

On the 16th, my family would reunite to celebrate “La Novena de Aguinaldos” or the Christmas Novena.My family is Catholic, so this part of our celebration was amust. My family would get together every night until thenight of the 24th to reflect on our faith andremember the birth of Jesus. Each night of theNovena, we would sing “villancicos” orSpanish Christmas carols. The Novenawould rotate from one family mem-ber’s home to another.

On the 24th, I would write a letterto baby Jesus letting him knowwhat I wanted for Christmas and Iwould leave the letter in the nativ-ity. My letter would ‘mysterious-ly’ disappear and baby Jesuswould deliver the presents on ornear my bed. Once I receivedmy presents, my family wouldspend the rest of the day givinggifts to friends or some whomay be less fortunate.

This time of year is when myfamily showed appreciation foreach other, our religion, and thepeople around us.

October 25, 2013 Since 1957 Vol. 57 B SECTIONDecember 13, 2013 Since 1957 Vol. 57 B SECTION

The

ALEJANDRO BEDOYA

Among my most fond Christmas memories isfrom December of 2011. Several years prior, myfamily traditionally began celebrating Christmas atmy aunt’s house and her children, whom my sib-lings and I are very close with. I loaded ourwrapped presents into my aunt’s Ford Explorer,and off we went to her house. I was excited aboutChristmas and spending time with my family. Thiswas my last before leaving for recruit training, andI was well aware that in the Marine Corps I mightnot always be able to spend the holidays with myfamily like I did. Given that, I made sure to cher-ish every moment.

The lights outside my aunt’s house glistened aswe arrived on Christmas Eve, and I quickly glancedat the Christmas village my aunt always sets up onthe chimney mantle, admiring the spirit it brings.After placing the gifts we brought under the beau-tiful, brightly-lit tree, our parents caught up on life,and so did my cousins and I. I didn’t always get thechance to spend time with them, but the holidayseason afforded me that chance. A memorable giftI received that day was a scarlet Marine Corps flag,as a gesture of good luck in the path that liedahead. For me, it wasn’t necessarily caroling orsnow that I held most fondly, but rather the unitymy family celebrated during the holiday season.

PAUL MARTINEZ

Celebrating the holidays variesfrom house to house and with

the Marine Corps’ diversityamong its ranks and holiday

traditions differ from eachother.These are the stories of just afew Combat Center Marines

and employees and theirChristmas experiences.

MARIA GARDNER

I am a Persian-American,born in Iran into our Islamic-rooted

family. Although we are non-practicing, I lived inIran until I was five and had no concept of Christmas

until we moved to the United States.My first Christmas in America was interesting. We were living inAlaska and the cultures of these two worlds were as different as

their climates. I knew very little English, which made learning the cus-toms from kids in my kindergarten class difficult.

One random snowy day, my uncle brought a tree into the center ofour living room. I was confused. I didn’t know what Christmas wasor why there were fat, red men on top of everyone’s roofs chasing

down deer with a whip on a sled.It was never really explained to me either. Nobody sat me down to tell me

the Santa myth. His folk lore and why because of him we should benaughty or nice was never part of my Christmas experience.

So, there stood that tree for what seemed like forever, decorated inscarlet and blue orbs. Tinsel wrapped around its brush in a spiral and

beneath it was empty, until one unexpected morning.In my living room, there sat presents below a tree, wrapped in

shiny paper. It was that easy. Unwrap the shiny paper,and a new toy was mine.

I love America.

ALI AZIMI

B2 DEECCEEMMBBEERR 13, 2013 OBBSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN Post

Liber t y Call

FFrreeee LLiinnee--DDaannccee LLeessssoonnssLearn to dance the night awayWhen: 5 - 9 p.m., every SundayWhere: Willie Boy’s Saloon and Dance Hall50048 29 Palms Hwy, Morongo Valley, Calif.For more information, call (760) 363-3343.

High Desert

OOppeerraattiioonn HHoommeeffrroonntt TTooyy DDiissttrriibbuuttiioonnOperation Homefront will be providing toys to military fami-lies. In order to receive toys, children must be registered atthe organization’s site.When: Friday, Dec. 13.Where: Bldg. 1004Call visit events.OperationHomefront.net

HHoolliiddaayy FFaammiillyy eevveennttCome see Santa. There will also be face painting andcaricature artists.When: 4 p.m. - 8 p.m., Friday, Dec. 13 Where: Main Exchange

DDrr..SSeeaarrss SSeemmiinnaarrThis two-hour seminar on childcare is taught by Dr. WilliamSears, the author of more than 40 childcare books. Childcare isavailable with reservations only.When: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 19.Where: Protestant Chapel

WWhhooooppiinngg CCoouugghh VVaacccciinneess aavvaaiillaabblleeThis is a one-time booster for individuals over the age of 7. Theboosters are available in the immunization clinic for children andadults on a walk-in basis.When: 9 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m., Mon. - Fri.Where: Naval Hospital

For more events visit http://www.mccs29palms.com

Combat Center Events

Low DesertGGoollddeenn BBooyy BBooxxiinnggBoxers compete for Super Featherweight Title When: 4 p.m., Friday, Dec. 13Where: Fantasy Springs Resort Casino 84-245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio, Calif.For more information, call 800-827-2946 or visithttp://www.fantasyspringsresort.com

CChhaarrooIconic Spanish-American singer, comedian performsWhen: 9 p.m., Friday, Dec. 13Where: Morongo Casino Resort and Spa49500 Seminole Drive, Cabazon, Calif.For more information, call 800-252-4499 or visithttp://www.morongocasinoresort.com

TThhee OOaakk RRiiddggee BBooyyssCountry and gospel coal quartet performsWhen: 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14Where: Spotlight 29 Casino 46-200 Harrison Place, Coachella, Calif.For more information, call 866-377-6829 or visithttp://www.spotlight29.com

MMoossccooww BBaattttlleettA performance of the NutcrackerWhen: 8 p.m., Friday, Dec. 20Where: Agua Caliente Casino, Resort and Spa32-250 Bob Hope Dr., Rancho Mirage, Calif.For more information, call 888-999-1995 or visit http://hotwatercasino.com

Movie musical puts soulful newspin on familiar Christmas story

AA CChhrriissttmmaass CCaarroollClassic seasonal story performed liveWhen: 7 p.m., Fridays & Saturdays, Nov. 15 - Dec. 14Where: Theatre 2973637 Sullivan Rd., Twentynine Palms, Calif.For more information, call (760) 316-4151

Sunset Cinema

NEIL POND“Black Nativity”

Starring Jennifer Hudson, Forest Whitaker, AngelaBasset and Jacob LatimoreDirected by Kasi LemmonsPG, 93 min.

If you’d like going to the movies to be a little morelike going to church, then you’ll probably like going tosee “Black Nativity.”

Based on a 1960s musical by acclaimed poet/novel-ist/playwright Langston Hughes, it’s a modern embel-lishment of the Nativity story as told through the con-verging lives of various characters coming together forthe staging of a Christmas Eve pageant at a Harlemhouse of worship.

Writer/director Kasi Lemmons fleshes out Hughes’stage play with a wider drama about a down-on-her-lucksingle Baltimore mom (Jennifer Hudson) who sends herteenage son (Jacob Latimore) to live with his grandpar-ents in New York during the holidays while she workstwo jobs and tries to figure out how to keep her and herson off the streets.

Langston (named after the famous poet) bristles atthe rigid God-centric rules laid down by his strict pas-tor grandfather (Forest Whitaker), but warms somewhatto his beaming, gracious grandma (Angela Bassett).

The original “Black Nativity” stage production was atapestry of traditional Christmas music and hymns,African-American rhythms, jazz and poetry. The movieversion weaves in all of those elements, too, sprinklingthroughout its dozen performances some contempo-rary hip-hop and rap for today’s ears.

Everybody sings, but it certainly helps that the castincludes a gut-busting tune-belter like Hudson, theGrammy and Oscar-winning “American Idol” finalist,and an appearance by Mary J. Blige, the electrifying“Queen of Hip-Hop Soul.”

It’s Whitaker, though, who truly surprises. TheOscar-winning actor doesn’t often get a chance to showoff his old college chops as an opera tenor, but he doeshere when he cuts loose in the “Black Nativity” pageantas the reverend leads the congregation in a soulful burstof preachin’ and praisin.’

This modest little feel-good movie probably won’t con-tend for any major awards (unlike Whitaker’s other moviethis year, “The Butler”). It’s pretty basic in its production— although some of the handsome shots by veteran cin-ematographer Anastos Michos are top-notch — and itsdrama tends to get a bit syrupy as it’s trying to soar.

But its heart is in the right place. And it can put yoursthere, too, if this holiday season you’re seeking a whole-some story with a joyous, tune-filled message about for-giveness, second chances and the true, timeless meaningof Christmas.

FFrriiddaayy,, DDeecc.. 11336 p.m. – The Fifth Estate, R9 p.m. – The Counselor, R12 a.m. – Thor: The Dark World 3-D, PG-13SSaattuurrddaayy,, DDeecc.. 114410 a.m. – Free Admission The Santa Clause, PG12:30 p.m. – Free Birds 3-D, PG3 p.m. – Ender’s Game, PG-136 p.m. – Thor: The Dark World 3-D, PG-138:30 p.m. – About Time, R11:30 p.m. – Last Vegas, PG-13SSuunnddaayy,, DDeecc.. 115512:30 p.m. – Delivery Man, PG-135 p.m. – Sneak Preview Grudge Match, PG-138 p.m. – The Best Man Holiday, RMMoonnddaayy,, DDeecc.. 11666:30 p.m. – The Best Man Holiday, RTTuueessddaayy,, DDeecc.. 11777 p.m. – Thor: The Dark World 3-D, PG-13WWeeddnneessddaayy,, DDeecc.. 11885 p.m. – The Fifth Estate, R8 p.m. – Last Vegas, PG-13TThhuurrssddaayy,, DDeecc.. 11996 p.m. – The Counselor, R7:30 p.m.– About Time, R

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